Speak up ...

In the South Australian Divisional Strategic Plan we have a strategy whereby we desire to "be a leading voice on areas of social concern". These couple of verses serve as a mandate:-

Proverbs 31:8-9 (New Living Translation)

8 Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves;

ensure justice for those being crushed.

9 Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless,

and see that they get justice.

Proverbs 31:8-9 (The Message)

8-9 "Speak up for the people who have no voice,

for the rights of all the down-and-outers.

Speak out for justice!

Stand up for the poor and destitute!"

There is a need for us who have the capacity to speak up and represent the case of the marginalised and most disadvantaged within our community. It has been the practice of The Salvation Army down through the years. Yes, I believe we need to be smart about how we do this. We need to do our research. We need to ensure that we have all the facts. We need to explore different models of service delivery. We need to look for other means of funding. But most of all, I think we need to listen. Listen to the cry of the people who are affected by poverty. Listen to their heart beat. And then - SPEAK UP!

"Lord, help us to be attuned to the needs of others and through Your wisdom and knowledge how best we might represent them, that their needs might be heard and addressed and justice done."